Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair removal is a convenient, noninvasive method for permanently reducing or removing unwanted facial or body hair. It leaves the skin looking smoother and silkier than waxing, electrolysis or razors and is a gentle technique that can treat larger areas effectively with minimal discomfort and with no downtime. Today, laser hair removal is one of the most common aesthetic procedures performed.

At the Cosmetic Surgery Center, we provide Laser Hair Removal using one of the most advanced and time proved machines (Elite®). This machine is characterized by using two types of LASER beams (Alexandrite and Nd-Yag) giving it the advantage of being able to treat different skin types or colors and different hair sizes. The pain generated from this procedure is very tolerable and almost nil. The results are long standing and usually require fewer sessions that other treatment modalities.

The following are some common reasons why you may want to consider laser hair removal:

  • You have unwanted facial or body hair that makes you feel self-conscious
  • You are looking for an alternative to waxing, electrolysis, shaving and bleaching

 

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A

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B

A. Laser hair removal is safe for all parts of the body, including the face, but a protective eye cover is usually used.

B. Permanently removing or reducing hair on the legs can save time, money and aggravation on shaving and waxing.

About Your Procedure

How is a laser hair removal procedure performed?

Before your laser hair removal treatment, protective eye shields will be placed over your eyes to prevent injury to your corneas or retinas. The hair that will be undergoing treatment will be trimmed to a few millimeters above the skin surface. To protect the outer layers of your skin, a cold gel or a special cooling device will be used. This will also make the treatment more effective by facilitating laser light penetration through the skin.

The most popular lasers for hair removal use a low-energy laser beam which will be adjusted to your skin color and to the color, thickness, and location of the hair that is to be removed. A test treatment will first be done by directing a test pulse light to the treatment area. A low-energy laser beam will pass through your skin and be absorbed by the pigment of a percentage of the active-growth hair follicles. This area will be observed to make sure that the settings are correct and to check for any adverse reactions to treatment.

If the test proves successful, the low-energy laser beam is then systematically directed spot-by-spot to the areas to be treated, instantly and permanently disabling the active-growth hair follicles with each treatment. Hair follicles in the dormant phase are not affected by the treatment.

When the procedure is completed, you may be given ice packs, cold water or anti-inflammatory creams or lotions to soothe the treated areas and diminish any discomfort.

Multiple sessions are required for optimal results. Usually three to eight are needed initially, but additional treatments at later dates should be expected, especially if you have endogenous hormone secreting states or exogenous hormone use.

Most surgeons recommend treatment intervals of four to eight weeks, depending on:

  • Your gender, age, hair type, and hair growth pattern
  • The body region being treated
  • The laser or light-based device selected

Preparing For Your Procedure

How do I prepare for a laser hair removal procedure?

In advance of your procedure, your surgeon will ask you to:

  • Wear sunscreen and/or avoid the sun
  • Avoid pretreatment plucking, waxing, or electrolysis
  • Regardless of the type of surgery to be performed, hydration is very important before and after treatment for safe recovery

What can I expect on the day of laser hair removal?

Laser hair removal is performed on an outpatient basis. A topical anesthetic gel may be applied before treatment, and skin cooling during the procedure will help keep you comfortable. In most cases, you should experience minimal pain and may feel a slight stinging sensation during the procedure. Most laser hair removal procedures take fifteen to thirty minutes; however, a longer time period may be required, depending on the area being treated.

  • Your surgeon will follow the treatment plan discussed with you.
  • After your procedure is completed, you will be able to return home and resume your normal activities.

Aftercare And Recovery

Immediately following laser hair removal

Immediately after treatment you will have smoother skin and a reduction in the number of hairs in the treated area. You may notice redness or minor skin irritation after the treatment, but this usually resolves quickly. You may need to use specially formulated skin care products and/or a prescribed skin care regimen. Sunscreen is a ‘must’ on any treated areas that are exposed. You should contact your surgeon if your skin redness and irritation persists to see if there is a problem that needs to be treated.

Week two to eight

You may notice an increase in hair growth in the treated area as dormant hair follicles that were not affected by the earlier laser treatment enter their active growing phase. Most surgeons recommend follow-up treatment intervals of approximately 4 to 8 weeks.

How Long Will My Results Last?

Hair removal is permanent but it may take as many as three to eight different sessions to ensure that all active-growth hair follicles have been satisfactorily removed.

Maintain a relationship with your aesthetic plastic surgeon

For safety, as well as the most beautiful and healthy outcome, it’s important to return to your plastic surgeon’s office for follow-up evaluation at prescribed times and whenever you notice any changes in the treatment areas. Do not hesitate to contact your surgeon when you have any questions or concerns.

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